Food-grade elastomers are essential materials in the food and beverage industry because they provide safe, reliable, and durable solutions for food processing, packaging, and preparation. These specialized polymers are nonreactive, non-toxic, chemically resistant, and stable around food products and extreme temperatures.

From bakery tools to food storage containers, food-grade elastomers play a critical role in keeping food products and equipment safe, compliant, and convenient in countless applications. Discover more about food-grade elastomers from Vanguard Products.

Food-Grade Elastomer Standards

Food-grade elastomers have to meet strict regulatory and industry standards because they come into direct contact with consumable goods. Standards and regulations require that food products and ingredients not be contaminated by the materials used to prepare or store them.

In addition to governing elastomer composition, these standards also influence manufacturing and testing procedures.

Several organizations around the world set and oversee standards to protect consumer health and safety, including:

  • FDA (USA). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates elastomers for food use through the “White List” in the Code of Federal Regulations (21 CFR 177.2600). While the FDA does not approve rubber compounds directly, any formulation made solely from ingredients on this list is considered compliant with the regulations.
  • NSF International. This organization develops global safety standards for food equipment. NSF/ANSI Standard 51 defines criteria for materials used in objects designed to come into contact with food.
  • BfR (Germany). The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment assesses safety issues related to food, consumer products, and chemicals. Its guidelines are widely referenced across Europe.
  • ASTM International. Formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials, ASTM develops voluntary consensus standards used globally for testing and quality assurance.
  • EFSA (European Union). The European Food Safety Authority enforces regulations such as EC No. 1935/2004, which establishes broad requirements for all food contact materials. While rubber products are not yet specifically regulated across the EU, compliance is enforced at the member-state level.
  • KIWA. Operating throughout Europe and internationally, KIWA offers independent certification and testing services in accordance with multiple international standards.

Applications

Food-grade elastomers are flexible, resilient, and generally have sealing performance. This makes them indispensable in food production and consumer product manufacturing. Although they can be used in a variety of products and applications, they are especially common in seals, fluid transport systems, and direct food-contact applications.

The applications listed below highlight just how many ways food-grade elastomers are used throughout the food and beverage industry, such as:

  • Seals In appliances: Silicone provides excellent sealing properties even under the most extreme high or low temperatures, making it an ideal choice for oven door seals and seals on refrigeration units.
  • Fluid transport tubing: The heat resistant properties of silicone make it ideal for applications in items such as coffeemakers and tea makers. Also, the resilience of silicone makes it ideal for use in beverage dispensing systems that utilize peristaltic mechanisms.
  • Bakeware. Silicone molds and pans offer a non-stick, flexible surface that simplifies baking and candy-making. Cakes, pastries, and chocolates release easily without damage, while the elastomer’s thermal stability ensures consistent performance.
  • Utensils and tools. Food-grade silicone is widely used in spatulas, mixing spoons, whisks, pastry brushes, and tongs. These tools resist high heat, will not scratch cookware, and are easy to clean because of their nonstick surfaces.
  • Food storage. Elastomer seals and gaskets help create airtight closures on containers and bags, protecting freshness and preventing leaks. Reusable silicone food bags and collapsible containers are now common alternatives to plastic, offering BPA-free, dishwasher-safe performance.
  • Baking mats and liners. Flat silicone mats provide a reusable non-stick surface for trays and pans, reducing waste by replacing disposable parchment or foil.
  • Ice trays and molds. Because they release contents easily and remain flexible at extreme temperatures, silicone molds are ideal for ice cubes, popsicles, chocolates, and candy.
  • Accessories. Funnels, bottle caps, muffin cups, and pour spouts are often made from silicone because of its durability, hygienic properties, and sealing power.
  • Baby and toddler products. Parents often opt for food-grade silicone when selecting pacifiers, bottle nipples, teething rings, and feeding spoons. Its hypoallergenic and non-toxic, making it a safe choice for children.
  • Cookware components. Silicone seals in pressure cookers, blenders, and food processors secure components and lids and also resist degradation from oils or heat. Food-grade silicone tubing is also used in beverage dispensers and food processing equipment.
  • Coated bakeware. Some metal pans and cookie sheets are lined with silicone resin instead of Teflon, creating a safe, non-stick surface that does not contain PFOA or PTFE.

Reach Out to Vanguard Products to Learn More

When it comes to these specialized elastomers, food industry organizations trust Vanguard Products. We have over 50 years of expertise with silicone, rubber, EPDM, and other elastomeric materials. Our team understands the unique requirements for maintaining food safety and we consistently deliver products that meet them.

Whether you need seals, tubing, or custom elastomer components for food processing and storage, Vanguard Products provides tailored solutions that protect both your process and your consumers.

If you are looking for food-grade elastomers, we would love to meet you. You can request a consultation or contact us to learn more about how our food-grade elastomers can support your application.